Regarding need to include the Karnataka Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Reservation of Seats in Educational Institutions and of Appointments or Posts in the Services under the State) Act, 2022 in the 9th Schedule to the Constitution-Laid

Regarding need to include the Karnataka Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Reservation of Seats in Educational Institutions and of Appointments or Posts in the Services th under the State) Act, 2022 in the 9 Schedule to the Constitution-Laid SHRI G. KUMAR NAIK (RAICHUR): I strongly urge the Government to take into consideration the pending demand for inclusion of the Karnataka Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Reservation of Seats in Educational Institutions and of Appointments or Posts in the Services under the State) Act, 2022 in the Ninth schedule to the Constitution. The proposal was forwarded to the Ministry of Home Affairs in 2023 and has since remained pending with the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. Despite repeated representations, no final decision has been taken. The demand for enhanced reservation in Karnataka is grounded in the findings of the Justice Nagamohandas Commission Report, 2020, which highlighted inadequate representation of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes in proportion to their population. The report relied on substantial empirical data demonstrating historical inequity and continuing under-representation. The Act seeks to give effect to the objectives enshrined in Articles 38, 39, and 46 of the Constitution, aimed at promoting social justice and protecting the interests of weaker sections. Inclusion in the Ninth Schedule would ensure constitutional protection under Articles 31B and 31C. In view of the constitutional mandate to secure substantive equality and social justice, I strongly urge the proposal for inclusion of the Act in the Ninth Schedule be acted upon, so that the intended benefits reach the deserving communities without further delay.